There are many spinal conditions that are treated at Laser Spine Institute. All procedures are uniquely designed and developed to provide patients with the best medical care. See our minimally invasive procedures

Thoracic scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine within the mid-back or thoracic region, where the spine is attached to the rib cage. Scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed in this region. The condition may be classified as congenital, neuromuscular or degenerative, depending on the underlying cause of the curvature and the age of the patient.

Causes of thoracic scoliosis

By far the most common form of scoliosis – regardless of where it is located within the spine – is idiopathic scoliosis. About 65 percent of all cases of scoliosis fall under this category. Idiopathic scoliosis has no known cause, although recent studies have begun to point to underlying genetic properties giving rise to the development of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

The second-most common form of thoracic scoliosis is congenital scoliosis. About 15 percent of all scoliosis cases are of this type, which develops during the third and sixth weeks in utero. It is generally detectable at birth, and it can be attributed to either a failure of formation, or a failure of segmentation within the vertebrae.

About 10 percent of scoliosis is considered neuromuscular in nature, a secondary result of a condition such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida. This is also related to syndromic scoliosis, which is related to conditions such as Marfan syndrome, dwarfism and many other syndromes.

Treatment for thoracic scoliosis

Minor curvature (10 percent or less) that does not appear to worsen should be monitored, but does not typically require a major course of treatment. More severe curvature is treated with a combination of traction, physical therapy, surgery and other methods.

To learn more about different types of scoliosis, or for information about innovative treatments available for adults with scoliosis in the lumbar (lower) spine, contact Laser Spine Institute. Our orthopedic surgeons can address some forms of adult scoliosis by using advanced techniques to perform minimally invasive procedures on an outpatient basis.

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*Individual spine conditions, treatment and recovery times may vary. Each patient's experience with minimally invasive spine surgery will differ. All surgical procedures involve some level of risk. If directed to pursue surgery by your physician, prompt action is advised, as waiting may reduce the efficacy of surgical treatment. Some patients may require an experience that exceeds five days and others may require as few as four days. Patients may be required to rest 48 hours post-surgery. Postoperative instructions vary from patient to patient. Follow your doctor’s advice. These procedures are reserved for those patients medically cleared and scheduled for minimally invasive treatment. Paid endorsements for Laser Spine Institute may not be for typical results. Laser Spine Institute requires each surgeon to complete an extensive Laser Spine Institute training program. MRI reviews are preliminary, and some patients' individual medical conditions may require additional testing that Laser Spine Institute will facilitate through a third-party service provider. Diagnostic procedures in Philadelphia and Oklahoma City are facilitated by Laser Spine Institute through a third-party provider. Medicaid currently not accepted.

**The opinions expressed in patient testimonials are by patients only; they are not qualified medical professionals. These opinions should not be relied upon as, or in place of, the medical advice of a licensed doctor or other health care provider.